The newly installed Hungarian government has begun implementing a series of comprehensive reforms aimed at undoing the legacy of the previous administration led by Viktor Orban. Prime Minister Peter Magyar and his Tisza party, benefiting from a significant parliamentary majority, are moving rapidly to address systemic issues related to corruption, governance, and institutional independence.

Restoring EU Relations and Domestic Reforms

Upon taking office, the new administration acted promptly to improve Hungary's standing with the European Union. Restrictions previously imposed by former Prime Minister Orban were lifted, facilitating the resumption of dialogue with both the EU and Ukraine. Domestically, the parliament approved measures to reduce the salaries of lawmakers and ministers and established a two-term limit for the office of prime minister. These initial actions were widely seen as symbolic moves to signal a departure from Orban's policies.

Dismantling Entrenched Networks

Orban's time in office was marked by the creation of structures designed to maintain influence even after a potential change in government. This included appointing loyalists to key civil service positions and transferring substantial public assets into private hands, making institutional change challenging. The current government's parliamentary majority allows for significant legislative action to undo these measures.

Key among the reforms is the introduction of "Operation Purgatory," aimed at eradicating longstanding networks that allegedly facilitated corruption and self-enrichment among former officials and their associates. The government has pledged to launch thorough investigations into the accumulation of assets by former leaders, with the intent to recover unlawfully obtained property and ensure accountability.

Legislative Packages Targeting Corruption

The parliament recently approved an extensive legislative package focusing on anti-corruption measures. These reforms are essential for unblocking approximately EUR17 billion in European Union funds, which were frozen over concerns about misuse during the previous administration. A critical aspect of the reform is the abolition of public interest asset management foundations (KEKVA), which had been established to manage universities, cultural institutions, and historical monuments. These foundations, responsible for shifting billions of euros in public assets to private entities, became emblematic of the alleged kleptocratic practices under Orban.

Some of these foundations also restructured university governance, appointing individuals with strong ties to the former ruling party, which compromised academic independence. For example, the Mathias Corvinus Collegium received significant state resources and was regarded as a central institution for training future party elites.

Improving Transparency and Oversight

Additional reforms include strengthening the Integrity Authority, introducing stricter asset declaration requirements for politicians and senior civil servants, and enhancing transparency in public procurement. During the Orban administration, the tendering process was frequently criticized for benefiting business associates and political allies, raising widespread concerns over fairness and impartiality.

Media and Institutional Reforms

The new government has also addressed longstanding issues in public broadcasting. Parliament approved a restructuring of public service media, aiming to dismantle the previous system, which was accused of amplifying partisan narratives and excluding opposition voices. The reformed structure will involve not only politicians but also representatives from journalistic organizations to ensure greater independence and objectivity.

Restrictions have been placed on the use of nationwide political advertising campaigns, which had become a hallmark of the previous government's communication strategy.

Asset Recovery and Constitutional Changes

One of the government's major initiatives is the proposed establishment of the Office for the Recovery and Protection of National Assets (NVVH). This institution is expected to play a central role in reclaiming assets allegedly acquired through corruption and in pursuing legal action against those involved. The move addresses broad public demand for accountability regarding financial misconduct during previous administrations.

Further legislative efforts are underway to amend the constitution, including provisions to limit parliamentary terms and to replace the current president, who is perceived by the government as closely aligned with the former regime. Some of these proposals have generated debate among the public and political experts, particularly concerning the balance between rapid reform and adherence to constitutional norms.

Balancing Reform and Rule of Law

Hungary's current leadership faces the challenge of reversing the effects of what has been described as "illiberal" governance while safeguarding democratic principles and the rule of law. The government's approach involves balancing the urgency of reform with the need for transparency, legality, and broad public engagement in shaping the country's future political landscape.